Composite vs. wood decking in the Carolina climate

Pressure-treated pine

The most affordable option and perfectly sound when built well. Expect to clean and seal it every one to two years, and to replace boards that check or cup over time in our humidity.

Cedar

Naturally beautiful and resistant to rot, with a warm color that silvers if left unsealed. It's softer than composite and needs regular sealing to keep its tone.

Composite and PVC

Higher up-front cost, but little more than a yearly wash. Modern capped boards resist fading and staining, and hidden fasteners leave a clean surface. Darker colors get hot in July — we bring samples so you can feel the difference.

Over fifteen years, composite often costs about the same as wood once you count sealing and board replacement.

Our take

For a deck you want to enjoy rather than maintain, we usually recommend composite decking on a pressure-treated frame with proper flashing and spacing. But we'll price both so you can decide.